PADEN CITY, W.Va. -- A packed house rallied against Paden City High School's rumored closing Thursday night.

The town hall meeting was called to address rumors that Wetzel County's diminishing population might prompt school officials to consolidate.

The final decision hinges on the outcome of the board's 10-year facilities plan, which has yet to be completed.

School officials cautioned against parents assuming the school's days are numbered.

"If you have any inkling about transferring your child to another school at this point because you think we might close down, that would be a monumental mistake," said athletic director Fred King.

Organizers of the town hall meeting were encouraged by the turnout.

"I don't think we realize how bad we would miss it if it was taken away and we need to fight," said David Edwards, pastor at the Paden City Nazarene Church.

A public hearing on the school's fate is scheduled for June.